Born: 1942 (Northern Iraq)
Died: 1969
Biography:
Margaret George Shello also known as Margaret George Malik or just Margaret George, was a famous Assyrian guerilla fighter and commander of the Kurdish Peshmerga forces during the First IraqiKurdish War. Born on January 21, 1942, she grew up in a small village in northern Iraq. Margaret George was raised within the Assyrian community, an ethnic and Christian religious minority in the region. This upbringing shaped her sense of identity and fueled her determination to fight for the rights and freedom of her people.
Margaret George’s journey as a revolutionary began at the age of 20 in 1963 when her village was attacked by a pro-Iraqi government militia. This traumatic event pushed her to join the Peshmerga, the armed forces of the Kurdish independence movement. Despite being the first female fighter in the Peshmerga, Margaret George quickly gained recognition for her skill, bravery, and leadership qualities.
As the leader of an all-male unit, Margaret George defied gender norms and shattered expectations. Her courage and strategic thinking earned her respect from her comrades and the admiration of the Kurdish and Assyrian communities. In Western Europe, she was hailed as the Joan of Arc of the Kurdish Revolution for her unwavering dedication to the cause of Kurdish independence.
Margaret George participated in several battles during the First IraqiKurdish War and led her unit to numerous victories. Her commitment to the Assyrian cause, in addition to the Kurdish struggle, made her a symbol of unity and resilience for both communities. However, her journey was cut short on December 26, 1969, when she was killed under unclear circumstances.
Different accounts have emerged regarding Margaret George’s death, each offering conflicting explanations. Some attributed her demise to internal power struggles within the Kurdish factions, suggesting she was assassinated for demanding a higher leadership position. Others claimed that Margaret George’s involvement with a high-ranking member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party led to her assassination. There are also allegations that she was killed by rival Kurdish groups or the Iraqi government. The truth behind her death remains elusive, contributing to the aura of mystery surrounding her legacy.
Despite her untimely death, Margaret George Shello continues to be revered as one of the most influential Peshmerga commanders. Her bravery, determination, and unwavering spirit have left an indelible mark on the Kurdish and Assyrian struggle for freedom. Margaret George’s legacy serves as a reminder of the vital role women play in fighting for justice and equality.